Kimkim Trip Reviews for South Korea

This hotel caters to Chinese national tourists and feels more like China than S. Korea. Most patrons and staff speak Mandarin Chinese and the breakfast buffet also catered more to a Chinese palette than showcasing authentic Korean cuisine. The flashiness of a Vegas hotel, but without the actual need of such. It appears as an impostor on an island that doesn't need it. Wish we had stayed elsewhere.

So beautiful with great amenties. Highlight is the breakfast buffet!

This hotel is in a great location for beachgoers and we loved the express checkout option. It's located in the heart of Haeundae, so there was a lot of street noise late into the night, which may not be ideal for everyone.

This hotel is beautiful and everything is immaculate.

The experience at this hotel was wonderful. The staff were super kind and helpful. We moved about the country on our trip, and the hotel held our luggage while we were in other cities at no extra charge. The breakfast buffet was wonderful and everyone in the restaurant was also a delight.

Great hotel! Breakfast was great and the staff was helpful. Rooms were nice and AC worked great.

Love the tour and tour guide - Taka!

Great tour! Loved the pace, the food and Jun was great - helpful, great English, accommodating and thoughtful.

The tour guide, Sophia Kim, was amazing! I can't recommend this tour more!!! She is full of knowledge, very accommodating and just a delight! I would not hesitate to book with her again! This tour was the highlight of my son's trip!

As a first-time visitor to South Korea, ENA Suite Hotel became my first home away from home, and I could not have asked for a better introduction to the country. The hotel’s location was incredibly convenient, allowing me to easily explore Seoul while still having a comfortable and welcoming place to return to after long days of sightseeing. Whether I was visiting cultural sites, exploring the city, or simply taking in the energy of Seoul, ENA Suite Hotel served as the perfect base for my adventures. The accommodations were spacious, clean, and thoughtfully maintained. After spending full days walking throughout Seoul, it was always comforting to return to a quiet and relaxing environment. The hotel provided exactly what a traveler hopes for—comfort, reliability, and peace of mind. What stood out most, however, was the professionalism and hospitality of the staff. Every interaction was pleasant, welcoming, and helpful. As an international traveler navigating a new country, those small moments of kindness made a meaningful difference. Seoul is a vibrant and energetic city, and ENA Suite Hotel complemented that experience perfectly. It provided the comfort, convenience, and hospitality that allowed me to fully enjoy my time in South Korea. Thank you for helping make my first visit to Seoul such a memorable experience.

Title: A Beautiful Retreat in Jeju Island My stay at Shilla Stay Plus Jeju was one of the highlights of my journey through South Korea. Jeju Island ultimately became my favorite destination during this trip, and Shilla Stay Plus provided the perfect environment to experience its beauty. From the moment I arrived, the property offered a sense of relaxation and tranquility that reflected the spirit of Jeju itself. One of the most memorable aspects of my stay was the exceptional beach view from my room. Each day began with breathtaking sunrises over the coastline and ended with equally stunning sunsets that painted the sky in remarkable colors. These moments became some of my favorite memories of Jeju and allowed me to fully appreciate the island’s natural beauty from the comfort of the hotel. The accommodations were comfortable, well-maintained, and thoughtfully designed. After days spent exploring waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, coastal trails, tea fields, and cultural sites, returning to the hotel felt like a welcome retreat. What I appreciated most was the atmosphere. There was a sense of calm that allowed me to slow down, reflect on the day’s experiences, and fully appreciate my time on the island. The staff were professional, attentive, and welcoming, consistently providing excellent service throughout my stay. As a first-time visitor to Jeju, I was captivated by the island’s natural beauty, and Shilla Stay Plus enhanced that experience by providing a comfortable and relaxing place to call home during my visit. Jeju left a lasting impression on me, and Shilla Stay Plus will always be part of those memories. Waking to the sunrise and ending the day watching the sunset over the coastline was a gift I will never forget. Thank you for your hospitality, professionalism, and for helping make my time on the island so special. A piece of my heart will forever remain in Jeju.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Beyond Exceptional – A Truly Unforgettable Experience I simply do not have enough words to express how extraordinary my experience with Ms. Sophia was. From beginning to end, it was exceptional, thrilling, transformative, and honestly felt like a fairy tale come to life. From the moment we met, I knew I was in the hands of someone incredibly special. Ms. Sophia’s knowledge, intelligence, professionalism, and genuine warmth far exceeded my expectations. Every question I had was answered with remarkable expertise, and she shared Korea’s history, culture, and traditions with such passion that I found myself completely immersed in the experience. What stood out most was how valued I felt throughout the journey. Ms. Sophia did not simply guide a tour—she created an unforgettable experience. Within minutes, she established a genuine connection that made me feel welcomed, appreciated, and cared for. Traveling alone in a foreign country can sometimes feel overwhelming, yet she made Korea feel familiar and comforting, almost as though I were returning home after a long absence. This was, without question, one of the most memorable experiences of my life. I felt completely spoiled by the level of care, attention, and personalization she provided. If there were a rating higher than five stars, I would gladly give it. A billion stars still would not feel like enough. As a first-time visitor to Korea, I arrived excited to explore a beautiful country. What I did not expect was to leave feeling so deeply connected to its people, history, and culture. Ms. Sophia brought Korea to life in a way that no guidebook ever could. Her passion, dedication, and love for her country shone through in every moment. I only wish I could have had Ms. Sophia as my guide for the remainder of my trip. She is an exceptional travel professional, an incredible ambassador for Korea, and someone who truly deserves recognition for the outstanding work she does. Thank you, Ms. Sophia, for creating memories I will cherish for a lifetime. This experience exceeded every expectation and will remain one of the highlights of my journey to Korea.

What an absolutely unforgettable experience! The Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, Gwangmyeong Cave, and Starfield Library tour from Seoul was nothing short of exceptional. While the destinations themselves were stunning, what truly made this experience extraordinary was our guide, Mr. Simon. I firmly believe that no tour can surpass the value of having a professional guide who is knowledgeable, passionate, and genuinely invested in ensuring guests have an amazing experience. Mr. Simon exceeded every expectation. He was attentive, kind, patient, and continuously shared fascinating historical and cultural insights throughout the day. His depth of knowledge brought every location to life in a way that would have been impossible to experience alone. From guiding us safely through the magnificent Suwon Hwaseong Fortress to helping us enjoy unexpected palace events taking place during our visit, Mr. Simon ensured every moment felt special. His ability to adapt and enhance the experience made the day feel personalized and effortless. Lunch was wonderful, and the visit to the breathtaking Starfield Library afterward was the perfect ending to an already incredible day. Every stop offered something unique, and I found myself smiling throughout the entire journey. As a traveler, experiences like this are what create lasting memories. Mr. Simon’s professionalism, warmth, and enthusiasm transformed a great tour into an extraordinary one. I cannot recommend this tour highly enough. If you have the opportunity to explore these beautiful destinations with Mr. Simon as your guide, do not hesitate—you will leave with wonderful memories and a deeper appreciation for Korea’s history, culture, and beauty. A truly outstanding experience that I will cherish for years to come!

The East Jeju tour was one of the highlights of my time on the island and provided a wonderful introduction to Jeju’s culture, history, and natural beauty. From Seongsan Ilchulbong and the Haenyeo cultural experience to the scenic coastal views and traditional sites, every stop offered something unique and memorable. The tour provided a perfect balance of education, culture, and breathtaking scenery. Mr. Zin was exceptional. His energy, warmth, and passion for Jeju were evident throughout the day. He went above and beyond to ensure guests felt welcomed, informed, and engaged at every stop. His knowledge and storytelling transformed the experience from simple sightseeing into a deeper appreciation of Jeju Island and its traditions.

Of all the experiences I had in South Korea, this tour became the one I will remember most. I booked the South West Jeju Tour expecting scenic viewpoints, beautiful photographs, and a pleasant day of sightseeing. Instead, I found myself completely captivated by an island I knew very little about and guided by someone whose passion for Jeju transformed every stop into an unforgettable experience. By the end of the day, I was no longer simply visiting Jeju. I was falling in love with it. As travelers, many of us arrive at destinations carrying the weight of busy lives. We rush from place to place, trying to see everything, photograph everything, and experience everything. In doing so, we sometimes forget to slow down long enough to truly appreciate where we are. Mr. Jay, together with Yeha Tour and Kim Kim Travel, gave me the opportunity to do exactly that. They allowed me to pause. To learn. To reflect. To be fully present. And because of that, Jeju became far more than a destination on a map. That transformation began with Mr. Jay. There are guides who tell you where to go. There are guides who explain what you are seeing. Then there are rare individuals who change the way you experience a destination entirely. Mr. Jay belongs in that final category. From the moment our journey began at Mt. Halla’s 1100 Altitude Wetland, it became clear that this would not be an ordinary tour. What initially appeared to be a beautiful mountain landscape quickly became a lesson in ecology, volcanic history, and the unique environmental conditions that make Jeju unlike anywhere else on Earth. At Jusangjeolli Cliff, I stood in awe of nature’s artistry. The volcanic columns were breathtaking, but what impressed me most was how Mr. Jay transformed a scenic overlook into a story. Suddenly, these were not simply rocks. They were evidence of powerful geological forces that had shaped an entire island and its people. The same was true at Cheonjeyeon Waterfall. Many visitors see a waterfall. Mr. Jay helped us understand its place within the larger story of Jeju. What separates this tour from many others is that Mr. Jay does not simply tell you where to look—he teaches you what you are looking at and why it matters. One of the most fascinating lessons of the day involved Jeju’s oreum, often referred to as parasitic or satellite volcanic cones. Before arriving in Jeju, I would have admired them as beautiful hills in the distance. After listening to Mr. Jay’s explanations, I understood them as living chapters of the island’s geological history. As the day progressed, I found myself viewing Mr. Jay less as a tour guide and more as a professor of Jeju itself. Not because he lectured, but because he taught. He taught us how volcanic oreum shaped the island’s landscape. He taught us why Jeju’s hydrangeas bloom in such remarkable colors and how the soil beneath them influences their appearance. He taught us Korean words, local traditions, geological history, and cultural perspectives that transformed ordinary sightseeing into meaningful understanding. What impressed me most was that every lesson felt natural. Nothing felt rehearsed. Nothing felt memorized. Instead, it felt as though we were being introduced to Jeju by someone who genuinely loved the island and wanted others to understand why. By the end of the day, I realized that Mr. Jay had accomplished something rare. He had not simply shown us Jeju. He had taught us how to see it. Lunch at the Well-being Korean Buffet became another memorable highlight. I had the opportunity to try both Jeju’s famous hairtail fish and the boiled pork, and I genuinely enjoyed both. The hairtail fish introduced me to one of Jeju’s beloved local specialties, while the boiled pork wrapped in fresh perilla leaves and paired with kimchi quickly became a personal favorite. Rather than rushing through the meal, I took my time savoring every bite. Travel teaches us through landscapes and landmarks, but Jeju also teaches through food. Finishing the meal with Korea’s famous instant coffee while reflecting on the day felt like a small but perfect cultural experience. Then came one of the most unexpected highlights of the tour. Because our group consistently arrived on time throughout the day, Mr. Jay surprised us with a bonus foot bath experience. What could have been a small gesture became one of my favorite memories. After spending the morning exploring wetlands, waterfalls, cliffs, and volcanic landscapes, the opportunity to sit, relax, and simply appreciate the journey felt incredibly rewarding. It was thoughtful, restorative, and completely unexpected. More importantly, it reflected the care Mr. Jay puts into creating memorable experiences rather than simply moving guests from one attraction to another. Following this bonus experience, we continued to O’sulloc Green Tea Field. The tea fields stretched across the landscape with remarkable elegance. There was a peaceful quality to the entire setting that encouraged visitors to slow down and appreciate the beauty around them. If there was one place where I wished I could have stayed longer, it would have been here. I found myself wanting to learn more about the tea-making process, the products, and the philosophy behind creating such a tranquil environment. As we continued to Songaksan Mountain, Jeju revealed yet another side of itself. The coastal trail offered sweeping ocean views, dramatic volcanic terrain, and endless horizons. Standing there overlooking the sea, I finally understood why so many people fall in love with Jeju. Jeju is an alluring and majestic wonder, captivating visitors not through spectacle alone, but through its rare ability to inspire awe, curiosity, reflection, and a profound sense of peace. Some destinations impress you for a moment. Jeju stays with you long after you leave. One of the most enchanting aspects of my visit was experiencing Jeju during hydrangea season. It felt as though the island had dressed itself in celebration. Hydrangeas flourished naturally along roadsides, throughout villages, near gardens, and across the countryside in stunning shades of blue, lavender, violet, pink, and white. Learning that the flowers naturally change color according to soil composition made them even more fascinating. Mr. Jay also taught us the Korean word for hydrangea: 수국 (Suguk). That small lesson perfectly captures what made this tour exceptional. A flower became a lesson in language. Language became a connection to culture. Culture became a deeper appreciation for Jeju itself. Witnessing the hydrangeas in full bloom felt like receiving a gift from the island. Our final stop at Bomunsa Temple beneath the magnificent Sanbangsan Mountain provided the perfect conclusion to an extraordinary day. Standing there surrounded by beauty, history, and tranquility, I realized something important. Before this tour, Jeju was a destination on my itinerary. After this tour, Jeju became a place I hope to return to. In a world that constantly encourages us to move faster, see more, and rush from one attraction to the next, Mr. Jay created space for something different. He encouraged curiosity. He encouraged observation. He encouraged presence. For a first-time visitor navigating a new destination, that gift proved just as valuable as the attractions themselves. The greatest lesson of the day was not found at a cliff, waterfall, temple, tea field, or mountain trail. It was learning to slow down long enough to truly experience Jeju. What impressed me most about Mr. Jay was not only his extraordinary knowledge but his sincere affection for the island. Originally from Busan, he found his roots in Jeju and now speaks about it with genuine admiration, pride, and respect. His enthusiasm is contagious. His storytelling is captivating. His knowledge is exceptional. Most importantly, his ability to help others understand Jeju is a rare gift. If Jeju Island were ever searching for someone capable of conveying its beauty, richness, culture, history, and spirit to the world, Mr. Jay would be an exceptional choice. He does not simply guide visitors through Jeju. He introduces them to its soul. If you are considering this tour, stop debating and book it. The scenery is extraordinary. The food is delicious. The locations are unforgettable. But the true value of this experience is gaining an understanding of Jeju that many visitors never have the opportunity to discover. Because of Mr. Jay, I did not simply see Jeju. I understood it. I learned from it. I experienced it. And somewhere between the wetlands of Hallasan, the volcanic cliffs, the tea fields, the hydrangea-lined roads, the coastal trails, the temple beneath Sanbangsan, and the stories that brought them all to life, I fell deeply in love with Jeju Island. A piece of my heart will forever remain there. Thank you, Mr. Jay. You did not simply provide a tour. You gave me a new way of seeing one of the most extraordinary places I have ever visited. P.S. One of my favorite surprises of the South West Jeju Tour was the bonus foot bath experience. It was such a relaxing and memorable addition to the day that I found myself wishing we could have spent a little more time there. If I could offer one suggestion, it would be to include a brief introduction to the history of the traditional foot bath, the tea products used during the experience, how the tea bags are prepared, and the intended uses or benefits of the products available. As someone who enjoys learning about local traditions and wellness practices, I would have loved the opportunity to learn more. The experience was wonderful as it was—I simply enjoyed it so much that it left me wanting to know more.

We had so much fun with Luke on this tour! His preparation, expertise and personality made the day so much fun.

Luke did such a great job with this tour! We had some rainy weather, so rather than just forcing the planned stops, he customized the tour to better match the conditions. The result was a day we'll never forget!

This was so much fun! The cooking portion was great (as expected), but it was so much more than that. We learned some Korean language, history and customs that really made the experience come to life.

Jun was great! In addition to the places we had planned, he also added a few spots he thought we would personally enjoy. It was such a great first day in Seoul!

Nice hotel on the beach. We had a wonderful ocean view with a terrace. They close all pools daily at 11:10-11:30 for cleaning. That was inconvenient as they don’t even allow you to stay in the pool area at that time.

One of the most beautiful hotels I have stayed in. We stayed only one night. I wish we had stayed one more night.

Beautiful clean hotel. We spent 4 nights. The room was large and beds were comfortable.

We really enjoyed the location of this hotel! Though not quite as nice as the other one we stayed in on our visit (L7 in Busan) in terms of amenities and general quality of rooms, we still really enjoyed our stay.

This hotel was the perfect location and the rooms were great. Breakfast was amazing!!

Our second day with Luke was amazing! He showed us so much of what Busan had to offer and even adjusted our schedule to see some new things that weren't on the itinerary because we had already explored some on our own. He showed us some of the best food we had on our trip. We could not recommend a tour with Luke more!

Luke was the best tour guide ever! We had such an amazing couple days with him - when it was rainy he suggested a different indoor activity at an art museum and it was the perfect alternative to being outside in the rain. He was so friendly and knowledgeable. We couldn't have asked for a better guide!

This was such a fun activity for our trip! The food was amazing and the class was educational and fun. We couldn't have asked for a better guide/instructor!!

We had such a great day with Jun! He had the whole day planned out perfectly and we got to see so much without feeling like it was too packed. We couldn't have asked for a better guide, he gave us a lot of fun details about everywhere we visited and answered any questions we had! We were so happy with this tour!!

We booked this hotel on our own and lived it. Excellent place

Excellent location. Service was fine and room was adequate

This day was a bit disappointing. Tour area were a bit touristy.

The hike to the the peak was fun and informative. The spirited garden is a must see for all!

Jino was an excellent guide. He shared all Sorts of historical and cultural information that made our time more memorable!

Due to group size

Our stay at Grand Hyatt Jeju was nothing short of spectacular. From the moment we arrived, we were immersed in comfort, luxury, and hospitality that far exceeded expectations. This hotel is truly a destination in itself. The rooms are absolutely stunning—among the largest and most comfortable we have ever stayed in. Spacious, elegant, beautifully designed, and incredibly relaxing, the room felt more like a luxury retreat than a hotel stay. After full days of exploring Jeju, it was a joy to return to such a serene and comfortable space. Every detail felt elevated. The dining at this hotel deserves the highest praise. Every restaurant we experienced was outstanding, with food that was memorable from start to finish. And the breakfast buffet—simply incredible. The variety was remarkable and everything was beautifully prepared. From bulgogi and dumplings to fresh salads, fruit, pastries, and countless other choices, each morning felt indulgent. We were completely spoiled and looked forward to breakfast every day. Another wonderful surprise was the shopping all on site, which made the experience feel even more complete. Having dining, luxury accommodations, and excellent shopping all in one place made the hotel feel like its own vibrant world. What truly elevated our stay, though, was the staff. Everyone was warm, welcoming, and genuinely kind, creating an atmosphere that felt both luxurious and personal. A special thank you to Jun, whose friendliness and wonderful conversations made our stay even more meaningful. It is rare to meet someone in a hotel who leaves such a lasting impression, and we will certainly miss our chats with him. Grand Hyatt Jeju offers everything you could want—beautiful oversized rooms, exceptional dining, incredible amenities, shopping, and heartfelt hospitality. It combines grandeur with warmth in a way that is hard to find. This was far more than a hotel stay—it was an unforgettable experience. We would return without hesitation and already miss it. If you are visiting Jeju and want true luxury paired with genuine hospitality, this is an absolute must-stay. Five stars are simply not enough.

Our stay at Signiel Busan was absolutely exceptional and easily one of the highlights of our trip. From the moment we arrived, everything about this hotel felt elevated, thoughtful, and unforgettable. First, the location could not have been any better. Just a short walk to Haeundae Beach, it was the perfect base for enjoying Busan. And the views—absolutely breathtaking. Our room had a balcony (yes, a balcony!) overlooking the ocean, and waking up to that view each morning felt surreal. Sitting outside with the sea breeze and hearing the waves was pure magic. The room itself was stunning—beautifully designed, spotless, and incredibly comfortable. Every detail felt luxurious yet welcoming. The bed was heavenly, the space was serene, and honestly… we did not want to leave. What truly made the stay special, though, was the staff. The service was impeccable but also so warm and personal. Having tea brought to our room was such a thoughtful touch and made us feel genuinely cared for. It is rare to find a luxury hotel that feels this polished while also feeling so personal. And the breakfast buffet—simply outstanding. Every morning felt like a feast. The spread was beautifully laid out and absolutely delicious. Freshly made eggs, dumplings, soup, fresh fruit, pastries… we were completely spoiled. It was one of the best hotel breakfasts we have ever had. Everything about Signiel Busan speaks to excellence: the unbeatable location, breathtaking ocean views, luxurious rooms, extraordinary staff, and incredible dining. This is not just a hotel stay—it is an experience. If you are visiting Busan and want a stay that is elegant, memorable, and deeply relaxing, this is an absolute must. We would return in a heartbeat. Five stars do not do it justice.

Our stay at Rakkojae Hahoe Hanok was one of the most unique and memorable parts of our trip to South Korea. If you want to immerse yourself in Korean history and experience something truly special, this is a place you should not miss. The beauty of the surrounding area is breathtaking. Set near the historic Hahoe Folk Village, the scenery feels timeless—peaceful, cultural, and almost like stepping into another era. Waking up surrounded by nature and traditional architecture was an experience in itself. Sleeping in a traditional hanok was something we had looked forward to, and it exceeded expectations. The heated floors (ondol) made the room incredibly cozy and added to the authenticity of the experience. There was something so peaceful about staying in a traditional Korean home while still enjoying modern comfort. Our room was wonderfully spacious—three of us stayed in one room and never felt crowded. There was plenty of room to move around, the bathroom was large and beautifully appointed, and the amenities were fantastic. Every detail felt thoughtful and elevated, balancing tradition with comfort in a way that made the stay feel both authentic and luxurious. What makes this property so special is that it is not just a hotel stay, it feels like a cultural experience. The only small note for us was the dining experience. While beautifully presented and refined, it leaned a bit too bougie for our taste. We had hoped for a more traditional, rustic Korean meal that matched the authenticity of the hanok setting. It was still well done, just not quite what we expected. That said, this did not take away from how remarkable this property is. Rakkojae Hahoe Hanok is truly one of a kind—a rare chance to experience Korean heritage in such a beautiful and comfortable setting. For travelers looking for something meaningful, memorable, and unlike a standard hotel stay, this place is unforgettable.

Our stay at The Westin Josun Seoul was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment we arrived, we knew this was going to be a special place, but by the time we left, it felt like leaving friends behind. Our hearts already miss the wonderful people there. First, the location simply cannot be beat. The hotel is just steps from Myeong-dong, which made it the perfect home base for exploring Seoul. Incredible food, endless shopping, vibrant nightlife—it was all right outside the door. Whether heading out for street food, late-night wandering, or sightseeing, we could not have asked for a better location. The hotel itself is elegant, immaculate, and incredibly comfortable. Our room was beautiful, peaceful, and luxurious, with every detail thoughtfully curated. After long days exploring, it felt like returning to a sanctuary. But what truly sets this hotel apart is the people. The staff made this stay unforgettable. William, the back doorman, was such a warm and welcoming presence and made us feel cared for from day one. The concierge staff were equally amazing—knowledgeable, kind, and genuinely invested in making our experience special. We truly felt like friends, not visitors, and that level of hospitality is rare and deeply meaningful. The breakfast buffet deserves its own standing ovation. It was absolutely out of this world—one of the best hotel breakfasts we have ever experienced. The quality, variety, and service were exceptional. Highlights for us were the dumplings, salmon, and kimchi, all absolutely delicious. Every morning felt like a culinary event. What makes this hotel so remarkable is that it combines luxury with heart. It offers world-class accommodations, an unbeatable location, and service that makes you feel at home in another country. This is not just a great hotel—it is a must-stay when visiting Seoul. We would return in a heartbeat, and honestly cannot imagine staying anywhere else. The Westin Josun Seoul helped make our trip unforgettable. Five stars are not enough.

Lotte City Hotel Myeongdong is centrally located and has very friendly and professional staff, with excellent food and a very pleasant atmosphere. I highly recommend it.

This is a beautiful location and it's fun to personally visit a historical set where many K dramas are filmed. The guide, Anna Kim, was very friendly and helpful.

Odd concept hotel, made me think of a hostel.

Everything you come to expect from a modern hotel, the rooms were well equipped and very well set up.

There is not 1 thing we could point to as being wrong, it was not really to our taste.

Very nice room. Gave us the traditional experience,

Mary was a delight to visit with and she went through the areas we wanted very well.

So informative, even though we do not have the religion it was amazing to learn about it.

This was a lot of fun and we had fun shopping.

The guide was excellent

We were able to see so much, our guide was wonderful,

Was an excellent TIRING time, we were given a great deal of information.